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Gates MacPherson

Freshmen Gates MacPherson came to GBCC after graduating from Exeter High School in May 2014. Like many other students, she diligently applied to seven 4-year colleges and universities throughout New England and was accepted into six. When it came time to enroll however, Gates was admittedly unsure about her options, and if the high tuition cost could be justified. “I have always been a practical person and when it came down to making a commitment, I realized I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, and as far as financial options go, Great Bay made the most sense. I am able to really decide what I want to do without spending so much money.”

After being accepted into the Liberal Arts program at Great Bay, Gates was approached by GBCC Advisor, Deanna Friedman to see if she would be interested in enrolling in the College’s Dual Admission program, a new partnership program with the University System of New Hampshire that allows students transfer seamlessly to USNH school to complete a bachelor’s degree after completing their associate degree at Great Bay. Qualified students earn credits that apply to both their associate degree and bachelor’s degree while at GBCC. “It was very encouraging to know how efficiently my credits could transfer” she said. “The other program benefits like having access to special advising, invitations to UNH events while at Great Bay and guaranteed housing were also a plus.” Because of her regular attendance at activities at UNH, Gates is confident about transferring from one school to another. “By going to events and games, I’ve gotten to take part in University activities while representing GBCC. It helping to make the transition easy and it’s been fun!”

To date, she is very confident that her decision to attend GBCC has been the right one. “I am taking the same quality classes as at other colleges but the classes are smaller and I am not a number. Last semester my English Comp Two II was incredible. How my professor edited our essays and worked with us was really important to me because I love writing. Having access to someone who really cared was important to me. In my Western Civilization class we always had discussions and actually learned things that made me think and applied to real life.” Praising the College for emphasizing a responsible approach to getting a degree, Gates is also happy to be around like-minded students. “It’s a real community here and great to see everyone working towards a common goal of bettering themselves and taking the initiative towards a better future.”

When asked what she could say to students back at Exeter High school, she replies, “I would tell any high school Junior or Senior about what a great experience it has been here at Great Bay and to save the stress of feeling pressured to apply to schools you may not be ready for or can’t afford. Don’t do something just to do it; it’s about your future and your passion. A year ago, I had no idea what I wanted. I was unsure about the future. I was scared about the future, now I am excited about my career path and I have Great Bay to thank for that.”